In this episode of The Insider Roundup, Ricardo explores the developments of the past 2 weeks shaping European research and innovation. We dive into the newly published Draghi report on European competitiveness, discussing its implications for technological sovereignty and industrial strategy as well as how we see it from the point of view of INESC TEC position paper on FP10. We also examine the proposal for a CERN for AI and its potential to position Europe as a leader in artificial intelligence. Additionally, we highlight critical advancements in clean energy research and celebrate the groundbreaking achievements of INESC MN’s Marco Piccardo, who recently secured an ERC Starting Grant for his innovative work in laser-plasma interactions. Tune in as we trace the pulse of Europe's research landscape and its trajectory for the future.

Key takeaways

• The EU is undergoing significant changes in research and innovation governance.
• The Draghi report has sparked discussions on technological sovereignty.
• Innovation procurement in Europe is gaining traction but remains underutilized.
• Clean energy research is critical for Europe's energy security.
• A centralized institution for AI could enhance Europe's capabilities.
• The need for public investment in AI is emphasized.
• Concerns exist about the centralization of AI research stifling innovation.
• Individual achievements in research contribute to collective progress.
• The importance of collaboration in addressing today's challenges is highlighted.
• Future breakthroughs depend on strategic investments in research and innovation.

Chapters

00:00

Introduction to Recent Developments in Research and Innovation

03:43

Key Political Developments in EU Research and Innovation

05:11

Analysis of the Draghi Report and Its Implications

07:26

Clean Energy Research and Innovation Strategies

09:46

The Concept of a CERN for AI

17:59

Challenges and Critiques of the CERN for AI Concept

18:57

Highlighting Individual Achievements in Research

In this episode of The Insider, we explore one of Europe’s most ambitious digital initiatives, the EU’s "Important Project of Common European Interest" (IPCEI-CIS) for cloud and edge computing. This project is reshaping the future of digital infrastructure across the continent, advancing Europe’s digital sovereignty, and redefining the cloud computing landscape. Joining us is Dr. Alberto Martí, Vice President of Open Source Innovation at OpenNebula Systems and Chair of the Industry Facilitation Group for this major initiative.

Together, we’ll delve into the structure, objectives, and strategic significance of the IPCEI-CIS, highlighting how it's more than just a technological effort, it's about creating a federated, secure, and sustainable cloud infrastructure that can reduce Europe’s dependence on non-European providers. We’ll unpack the four key workstreams driving this initiative, including federated edge computing, interoperability, and cybersecurity, and discuss the challenges and breakthroughs in these critical areas.

Through insights from Dr. Martí, we’ll reveal the collaborative efforts of 12 member states, research institutions, and companies working together to bolster Europe’s competitive position in the global digital economy. The episode will also explore the governance and contributions of these stakeholders, providing a comprehensive look at how IPCEI-CIS is poised to transform the European cloud market.

Key Takeaways:

• An in-depth understanding of the IPCEI-CIS initiative and its critical role in advancing Europe’s digital sovereignty
• Analysis of the four key workstreams driving this ambitious project
• Insights into federated edge computing, interoperability, and cybersecurity
• The collaboration between research institutions, companies, and member states
• Europe's strategy to reduce dependence on non-European cloud providers

Tune in to discover whether this initiative has what it takes to transform Europe’s digital game and make waves in the global cloud computing industry!

Brussels reawakens from its summer pause, we’re diving into the critical updates that will shape the future of EU Research and Innovation.

In this episode of The Insider Roundup:

🔍Editorial Insight: Inês Lynce reflects on the delicate balance between scientific freedom and the agendas driving our research. Can we reconcile our intellectual passions with the broader societal goals? Her thoughts challenge us to see this as an opportunity, not a conflict.

We’re dissecting the latest reports set to redefine Horizon Europe. From the impressive yet challenging paths of the European Innovation Council (EIC) to the ambitious goals of the Green Transition, we’re asking the tough questions—are we truly maximizing Horizon Europe’s potential?

Global Perspective: Ann Mettler’s sharp analysis on European competitiveness—should Europe think beyond its borders and adapt its policies to the global stage? Her insights are a must-read for anyone navigating the complex landscape of EU R&I.

💡 Spotlight on Policy and Funding: Discover the innovative funding models for antiviral therapeutics and how they could revolutionize other sectors. Plus, a critical look at the recent Horizon Europe interim evaluation reports that will guide the next steps in EU R&I.

🔔 Call to Action: The European Commission has opened nominations for the Group of Scientific Advisors (Scientific Advisory Mechanism - SAM). This is your chance to contribute to shaping Europe’s future through informed, strategic, and impactful scientific advice.

📰 Read the full newsletter on INESC Brussels Hub website and listen to the latest podcast episode here. Don’t forget to subscribe!

In the most recent episode of The Insider Roundup, we covered the significant developments shaping the future of global research and innovation, with a particular focus on the evolving dynamics between Europe and China.

As China continues its rapid ascent in the scientific world, we examine the implications for international collaboration, the potential risks of isolationism, and the critical role that Europe is playing in AI and supercomputing advancements.

We also discuss the strategic measures being implemented to support startups and SMEs in these fields, highlighting the importance of building collaborative frameworks that enhance our collective capabilities.

Tune in to unravel the complexities of these global shifts and consider how Europe can steer through this challenging yet promising era in research and innovation.

Takeaways

• The rapid advancements in AI and supercomputing are reshaping the global landscape of research and innovation.
• China's rise as a scientific powerhouse raises questions about international collaboration and the risks of isolationism.
• Europe is making significant advances in AI and supercomputing and is implementing measures to support startups and SMEs.
• Forging connections and harnessing collaborations is essential to strengthen collective potential and shape the future of global research.

Chapters

01:30 Introduction and Setting the Context

03:00: China's Rise as a Scientific Powerhouse

07:22: Challenges and Opportunities of International Collaboration

11:40: Advancements in AI and Supercomputing in Europe

12:10: Supporting Startups and SMEs in the Field of AI

15:32: Fostering connections and harnessing collaboration.

This week, as holidays are approaching and The Insider will go on holiday, we will skip the round-up and share an engaging episode as we sit down with Tadas Tumènas, Head of the Lithuanian RDI Liaison Office LINO and Lecturer in Innovation Policy and Management at Mykolas Romeris University. With a rich background in EU Science, Technology, and Innovation policy, Tadas shares his journey from policy analyst to leading Lithuania's integration into international research networks.

We explore Lithuania's current state in the EU R&I landscape, its strengths in digital innovation and the challenges it faces. Tadas provides an insightful overview of Lithuania's position on the upcoming FP10, emphasizing the need for funding blue-sky research, fostering critical technologies, and broadening participation across EU regions.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of policy and technological advancement within the EU framework.

Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation filled with expert insights and forward-looking perspectives on the future of European research and innovation.